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Contract Structural Engineer Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Engineer, Automation & Controls

Newton, IA · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

... engineering principles, company standards, customer contract requirements, and related ... TPI Composites is a global provider of structural composites products and the largest U.S. based ...

Engineer, Automation & Controls

Newton, IA · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

... contract requirements, and related specifications. • Coordinates activities concerned with ... About Us TPI Composites is a global provider of structural composites products and the largest U.S ...

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · Hybrid

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Draws structural, mechanical and engineering details of equipment, structures, and more using ... Interprets contract drawings & specifications to produce accurate drawings * Maintains sets of ...

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · Hybrid

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Draws structural, mechanical and engineering details of equipment, structures, and more using ... Interprets contract drawings & specifications to produce accurate drawings * Maintains sets of ...

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · On-site

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Draws structural, mechanical and engineering details of equipment, structures, and more using ... Interprets contract drawings & specifications to produce accurate drawings * Maintains sets of ...

... applies engineering mechanics to vehicle dynamics, structural stability, and mechanism design ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Statics Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... structural analysis, machine design, and construction engineering. * Curriculum Awareness ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Structural Engineer information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$48.8K

$97K

$148.3K

How much do contract structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract structural engineer in Des Moines, IA is $97,007.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,100.00 and $110,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a contract structural engineer do?

A Contract Structural Engineer is a professional who is hired on a temporary or project basis to analyze, design, and oversee the construction of structures such as buildings, bridges, or other infrastructure. Their main responsibility is to ensure that these structures are safe, stable, and comply with building codes and regulations. They work closely with architects, contractors, and clients to develop structural solutions that meet project requirements. Contract Structural Engineers may handle a variety of tasks, from creating detailed technical drawings to inspecting work on-site and providing engineering reports.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract structural engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Structural Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or structural engineering, strong analytical skills, and a relevant engineering degree with professional certification (such as PE or Chartered Engineer status). Proficiency with structural analysis software like SAP2000, ETABS, or AutoCAD, and familiarity with building codes and standards, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help you collaborate with clients and multidisciplinary teams effectively. These skills and qualifications are essential for delivering safe, compliant, and cost-effective structural solutions within project constraints.

What are some typical challenges a contract structural engineer faces when working with multiple clients and projects simultaneously?

As a Contract Structural Engineer, managing multiple clients and projects concurrently often requires strong organizational skills and the ability to balance competing priorities. You may encounter challenges such as adapting to different project requirements, coordinating with various teams, and ensuring that all deliverables meet specific codes and standards within tight deadlines. Effective communication and proactive problem-solving are essential, as you'll frequently collaborate with architects, contractors, and project managers to address design changes or resolve site issues. Staying updated on industry best practices and maintaining flexibility can help you navigate these common challenges successfully.

What is the difference between Contract Structural Engineer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectContract Structural EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsPE license, relevant engineering degrees, often contract-specific certificationsPE license, engineering degree, professional certifications
Work EnvironmentProject-based, freelance or temporary roles, on-site or remoteFull-time employment, office or site-based
Employer & Industry UsageConsulting firms, construction projects, freelance workEngineering firms, construction companies, government agencies

Contract Structural Engineers typically work on a project basis, often as freelancers or consultants, focusing on specific projects with temporary contracts. Structural Engineers usually hold full-time positions within firms or companies, providing ongoing engineering services. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in employment type and work setup.

What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineer jobs in Des Moines, IA?

The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Structural Engineer jobs in Des Moines, IA?

For Contract Structural Engineer jobs in Des Moines, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Structural Engineer jobs in Des Moines, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Structural Engineer jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

What cities near Des Moines, IA are hiring for Contract Structural Engineer jobs?

Cities near Des Moines, IA with the most Contract Structural Engineer job openings:

Engineer, Automation & Controls

TPI Composites

Newton, IA • On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Position Summary:


Directs, coordinates, and exercises functional authority for planning, organization, control, integration, and completion of engineering project within area of assigned responsibility by performing the following duties.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

    Plans and implements engineering projects, including defining the project philosophy, activities, milestones, and staff requirements, per customer requirements. 
    Develops and maintains a schedule and budget for assigned engineering projects.
    Provides reports on the status of project milestones and adjusts schedules accordingly.
    Controls expenditures within limitations of project budget.
    Identifies project staffing requirements and coordinates staffing with supporting organization managers. 
    Coordinates preparation and delivery of project deliverables, design documents, and bid packages.
    Assigns and oversees project personnel to specific phases or aspects of project such as technical studies, product design, preparation of specifications and technical plans, and product testing.
    Designs simple tools and fixtures including mechanical, fluid power, and electrical controls.
    Reviews product design for compliance with engineering principles, company standards, customer contract requirements, and related specifications.
    Coordinates activities concerned with technical developments, scheduling, and resolving engineering design and test problems.
    Directs integration of technical activities and products.
    Evaluates and approves design changes, specifications, and drawing releases. 
    Prepares interim and completion project reports.
    Interfaces with customers to provide project status reports and ensure customer needs are met. 
    Provides status and progress reports to customer, project team, and management.


Education/ Skills/ Experience:

Bachelor's degree (B. S.) in engineering or technology; and 1-2 years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.


Training Requirements:


    Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical procedures, governmental regulations, professional journals, or general business periodicals.
    Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
    Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.
    Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference, and fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry.
    Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations. Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
    Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
    Proficient in SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office Suite.
    Working knowledge of industrial control systems (PLCs, VFDs, etc.)
    Working knowledge of fluid power systems (pneumatic, hydraulic, etc.)


Physical Skills and Abilities:


    Ability to be on the factory floor for long periods of time, potentially working across all shifts at times.
    Stamina to work 50+ hours/week to support plant performance.
 

TPI Composites is a global provider of structural composites products and the largest U.S. based independent manufacturer of composites wind blades to major turbine manufacturers in the United States, Europe, and Asia. It enables many of the industry's leading wind turbine original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), which have historically relied on in-house production, to outsource the manufacturing of some of their wind blades through its global footprint of advanced manufacturing facilities strategically located to serve large and growing wind markets in a cost-effective manner.  

Additional Information

TPI Composites, Inc. offer competitive compensation and benefits, including but not limited to, health and dental insurance, 401(k) plan with company match, and paid vacation plans.
TPI Composites, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Background check and drug test required. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.